Good news at last.

The Pensionista centre rooms are now available for groups to restart. Whereas this is something we have all been waiting for, it comes with the caveat that the completely new refurbish kitchen and the bar area downstairs isn't open all day, but is open in the morning and evening; therefore some groups may need to still use the side doors.

Another piece of good news is that over the past year the committee have been working closely with the Yolanda Pastor (Oliva Mayoress), trying to obtain some storage space for our equipment etc. Finally we have been promised a small room in the Pensionista, where not only can we store some items, but have a desk and chair, if required. This means we will have an official base/office. This is great news and we have sent our thanks to Yolanda on behalf of all the members. The room will be ours in a few weeks,

Lots of our groups have now started up and in October the groups who use the Pensionista centre should also be up and running. Talk to your group leaders to find out when your group is restarting.

It has been a long haul, but great to see that the bar is also open, albeit part time.

I have lots of groups news to tell you about!

Belly Dancing 

Our belly dancing class is starting again, for those of you with stiff hips or a tight back? Come loosen up, make new friends, and get in shape moving to sultry music. 

Belly Dancing is in its second year. The teacher is friendly, encouraging for beginners, and makes the steps very easy to learn. The group is warm and inviting, and come from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds.

NEW: Bitesize Spanish and Valenciano

Our tutor Paola is initially offering 6 weekly sessions until we can find out the demand for lessons and levels. We'll start with practical Spanish, and then hopefully Valenciano if there's enough interest.

Every group needs someone to volunteer as Group Leader - they just keep things on track. If you're interested in these new groups, and would be willing to act as leader, send me an email.

NEW: Cozy Spanish

If you prefer a smaller group to learn Spanish. we have a Spanish speaking linguist tutor, Vicki, who is happy to teach beginners in groups of 4 at a special u3a rate of 10€ per person per hour (normally 12€)

NEW: Chair Yoga & Taster Session

Chair Yoga will be starting officially on Wednesday 16th October at the Pensionista Centre! If you have already expressed an interest we have you on our list).

If you want to know more, or give it a try, why come along to the tester session on Wednesday 9th October at Tasca Olivense. It's part our of focus on 'Just One Thing - Mindfulness'

Space for Yoga and Flamenco

The u3a Yoga Group have space for more members (male or female). It's a brilliant way to keep active.

The group meets on Monday and/or Friday mornings - your monthly subs work out at between 3€ and 5€ a session!

And Flamenco also have room - so if you've ever wanted to try this out, why not give it a go. Where else can you learn this wonderful dance at a bargain rate.

And more..

We have received some great suggestions for new groups - like art, drawing, dancing or more lunchtime opportunities.

Keep an eye on your emails, our Facebook group and the Groups page on the website to stay up to date.

Bingo

The first Bingo session went very well and there is a good chance it will become a weekly session. However Tasca Olivense is closed for two weeks in October, so we can squeeze one more in this week before then and then they will continue on a regular basis from November.

Charity Gala

Benidorm Palace: Now confirmed. The Special 'Save My Life' Gala event on Sunday 13th October . The gala will feature a music, dance and magic show, with the participation of renowned artists. It looks like a great afternoon of entertainment.

We continue to look at future trips and events and hope to have more news soon. Keep an eye on your emails and Facebook for the latest news.

As part of the support we offer members, we are also trying to reach out to members who do not have visible support needs, but the unseen issues like anxiety and loneliness.

For this purpose although the 'Just One Thing' Wednesday afternoon meetings are for all members to come along and to try/learn different things that may help your body and mind. It is hoped that members will learn different ways and methods to help cope with those stressful moments in life. We will be open to ideas and discuss what and who you would like to hear about.

As you'll have read above, our session on Wednesday 9th October will include a talk and demonstration from Iber, our Chair Yoga instructor. He'll explain how yoga is helpful for mind and body. Iber will also do a short demonstration on Qigong, another exercise for relaxing.

Please do come along to support this new social and stimulating session.